Method and apparatus for varying win probability and payouts of a gaming machine

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus for varying win probabilities and/or payouts of a gaming machine as a function of the amount wagered by a player in a round of play is disclosed. In one embodiment, the probability of receiving a winning combination and/or the payouts for one or more winning combinations increase as an amount wagered increases. In one embodiment, sets of outcomes are stored in memory, each set of outcomes associated with an amount bet or a range of bets. The possible outcomes for larger bets represent a higher probability of receiving a winning combination or payout. The outcome of a game or round is determined by mapping a random number generated by a random number generator to outcomes stored in memory.

RELATED APPLICATION DATA

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/931,127, filed Jan. 24, 2011, now abandoned, which is a continuationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/283,787, filed Sep. 15, 2008, nowabandoned, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/392,449, filed Mar. 18, 2003, now abandoned.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for varying thewin probability and/or payouts of a gaming machine based on the amountwagered by a bettor.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Gaming is an increasingly popular activity. Over the years, a variety ofnew gaming devices and games have been developed. Generally, casinosseek new games and gaming devices which entice players to play morefrequently, since this increases the revenue to the casino. Players seeknew games and gaming devices which are more entertaining and which theplayer believes has an increased probability of resulting in a win.

One of the most popular of gaming machines is the slot machine. Slotmachines were originally mechanically controlled, where the reels weremade to spin about an axis by the rotational momentum exerted by thepull of its handle. The angular position of the reels determined thenature of the symbols or the outcome and determined whether a bettorreceived a winning outcome and an associated payout.

A variety of modifications to the slot machine have been introduced overthe years. Now, the reels of slot machines are electronicallycontrolled. In other instances, the reels have been eliminatedaltogether, the reels simulated in video form on one or more videodisplays.

Other features have been added to slot and other gaming machines.Current gaming machines utilize video monitors having higher screenresolutions and color depth. Audio has gone from a mono speaker tostereo surround sound. These improvements provide for an increased levelof entertainment from the perspective of the player.

A variety of features have been introduced to entice new players to playgaming machines or to cause existing players to play more frequently.For example, bonus games have been added to existing games. The gamesmay also be configured to award large jackpots for certain winningcombinations.

Many gaming machines have been configured to accept bets of differentsizes. Casinos generally desire that a player bet as large a wager aspossible, as such generally increases the revenue of the casino. As oneexample, a slot machine may be configured to accept a bet comprisingone, two or three coins of a particular denomination. As is known, theseslot machines are configured to pay winning amounts which are an integermultiplier of the number of bets or coins wagered. For example, when twocoins are inserted for play, the payout is simply twice the payout for awinning outcome when a single coin is bet. Likewise, when a maximumnumber of coins (3 coins usually) are played, the payout is generallythree times the base payout. In order to entice a player to place themaximum bet, a jackpot amount may only be awarded for receiving aparticular winning combination when the player places the maximum bet.

In this arrangement, there is little or no incentive for a player toincrease the number of coins or bets wagered in a round of play. Theonly instance in which a bettor may increase his bet to the maximum iswhen he feels that the jackpot is at a level that warrants an increasedbet. In all other cases, the bettor may simply bet the minimum amountper round of play.

An improved method and apparatus for gaming machines that attracts alarger number of bettors, maximizes the amount wagered per round ofplay, and generates increased gaming revenue is desired.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the invention is a method of playing a game on a gamingmachine where the probability of receiving a winning outcome varies asbet size varies, and/or a method of playing a game in which the averagepayout varies. Other aspects of the invention are a gaming machineconfigured to implement one or more methods of the invention.

One embodiment of the invention is a method of playing a game on agaming machine in which the probability of receiving a winning outcomevaries dependent upon an amount wagered. In one embodiment, this methodincludes the step of accepting a wager from a player. The method alsoincludes the step of determining if the wager is a first amount or asecond amount, the second amount being larger than the first amount. Agame is presented for play by the player, the game having a firstprobability of resulting in a winning outcome if the wager is the firstamount, and the game having a second probability of resulting in awinning outcome if the wager is the second amount. The method furtherincludes the steps of determining the outcome of the game and awardingthe player a winning if the outcome is a winning outcome.

In one embodiment of this method, the second probability is greater thanthe first probability. In other words, the probability of receiving awinning outcome increases when a larger bet is placed.

In one embodiment, the method includes the step of providing groups ofoutcomes and selecting a particular group of outcomes based upon theamount wagered by the player, the group of outcomes selected from a setof at least two groups of outcomes associated with wagers of differentamounts, each group of outcomes representing a different probability ofreceiving a winning outcome.

In one embodiment, groups of outcomes are stored in a memory. Eachoutcome of a group of outcomes is identified by a number. The methodincludes the step of generating a random number and mapping that numberto a particular outcome of the selected group of outcomes.

Another embodiment of the invention comprises a method of playing a gameon a gaming machine in which the payout for game play varies dependentupon amount wagered. This method includes the steps of accepting a wagerfrom a player and determining if the wager is a first amount or a secondamount, the second amount being larger than the first amount. In oneembodiment, the method further includes the step of presenting a gamefor play by the player, wherein an average payout for particular winningcombinations received when the wager is the first amount varies from anaverage payout for the same winning combinations received when the wageris the second amount, preferably by more than the percentage differencebetween the first and second bets. The method further includes the stepsof determining the outcome of the game and awarding the player a winningif the outcome is a winning outcome.

In another embodiment, the average payout over time for winningcombinations received when the wager is the second amount is greaterthan the average payout over time for winning combinations received whenthe wager is the first amount by more than the percentage differencebetween the first and second bets.

In accordance with this embodiment, outcomes having associated payoutsmay again be stored in a memory and selected with a random number.

In one embodiment of a method of the invention, both the probability ofreceiving a winning outcome and the average payout may vary.

One or more embodiments of the invention comprise a gaming machineconfigured to present a method of the invention. The gaming machine maybe of a variety of types and configured to present a variety of games,such as a video gaming machine configured to present video poker or aslot machine configured to present the game of slots.

Further objects, features, and advantages of the present invention overthe prior art will become apparent from the detailed description of thedrawings which follows, when considered with the attached figures.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a gaming machine in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of a system of the gaming machineillustrated in FIG. 1 configured to implement a method of the invention;

FIG. 3 illustrates exemplary payouts for outcomes based on a minimum betor wager;

FIG. 3A illustrates an exemplary set of outcomes and their associatedpayouts when a minimum bet is wagered;

FIG. 3B illustrates an exemplary set of outcomes and their associatedpayouts when twice the minimum bet is wagered;

FIG. 3C illustrates an exemplary set of outcomes and their associatedpayouts when three times the minimum bet is wagered;

FIG. 4 is an operational flowchart of an embodiment used to vary the winprobability in a gaming machine;

FIG. 5 illustrates exemplary outcomes for a minimum wager in a gamingmachine;

FIG. 5A illustrates an exemplary set of payouts when a minimum bet iswagered;

FIG. 5B illustrates an exemplary set of payouts when twice the minimumbet is wagered;

FIG. 5C illustrates an exemplary set of payouts when three times theminimum bet is wagered;

FIG. 6 is an operational flowchart of an embodiment used to vary thepayouts of winning outcomes in a gaming machine.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a second system used to vary the winprobability or payout of a gaming machine;

FIG. 8A illustrates an exemplary set of outcomes that vary based onamount wagered;

FIG. 8B illustrates exemplary winning outcomes in a gaming machine;

FIG. 8C illustrates exemplary losing outcomes in a gaming machine;

FIG. 8D illustrates an exemplary set of payouts that vary based on theamount wagered;

FIG. 9 is an operational flowchart of an embodiment used to vary thepercentage of winning outcomes and the amount of payout in a gamingmachine.

FIGS. 10( a) and (b) are tables illustrating exemplary configurationsfor games in accordance with the invention; and

FIGS. 11( a), (b) and (c) are tables illustrating yet other exemplaryconfigurations for games in accordance with the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention is a method and apparatus to vary win probabilities and/orpayouts of a gaming machine as a function of the amount wagered by abettor in a round of play. The win probabilities and/or the payout(s) onwinning outcome(s) may be adjusted higher as a bettor wagers a higheramount of money. It is anticipated that such incentives may encourage abettor to wager a maximum amount, providing increased revenue for thecasino operator and greater excitement for the bettor.

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth inorder to provide a more thorough description of the present invention.It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that thepresent invention may be practiced without these specific details. Inother instances, well-known features have not been described in detailso as not to obscure the invention.

The embodiments described incorporate a methodology that increases thewin probability or payout for a particular game or a round of play of agaming machine when a higher wager is placed. In accordance with theinvention, a gaming machine is configured to accept a wager in the formof a coin, token, or credit. The gaming machine is configured to acceptwagers of different amounts comprising multiples of a coin, token orcredit. The probability of obtaining a winning out come, or the payoutfor a winning outcome, increases based upon the size of the bet.

One embodiment of the invention is method of playing a game on a gamingmachine and a gaming machine which is configured so that the probabilityof the occurrence of a winning outcome increases as a player's wagerincreases. By “winning outcome” it is meant an outcome where the playeris awarded an award, such as a payout of value. Preferably, the outcomeis winning if the amount of the payout exceeds the player's bet.

One embodiment of the invention is a method of playing a game on agaming machine and a gaming machine which is configured so that a payoutor the average payout increases as a player's wager increases. By“average” payout, it is meant the statistical average return or payoutfor all outcomes, or at least all winning outcomes.

In another embodiment, the payout for at least one winning outcomeincreases as a player's wager increases. Preferably, the payoutincreases by a percentage which exceeds the percentage by which theplayer's wager increases or varies.

FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a gaming machine 104 of theinvention. This gaming machine 104 is similar in many respects to atypical gaming machine configured to present a game of slots. Thesegaming machines 104 may be situated in a casino or other establishment.It is contemplated that the gaming machine 104 of the invention may beconfigured to present a wide variety of games now known or laterdeveloped, including Blackjack or “21,” Poker and others, and mayinclude other devices than that illustrated. For example, the gamingmachine 104 may be configured not only as a “stand-up” unit, but may beconfigured as a bar-top unit. The gaming machine 104 may also comprise acomputing device, such as a computer, and may comprise a distributedcomputing device, such as a player console connected to a remote serverdevice.

In the embodiment illustrated, the gaming machine 104 comprises astructure having an arm 108 attached to a body or housing 112. The body112 of the gaming machine 104 provides a view of three reels 116. Thethree reels 116 display symbols or indicia which represent the outcomeof a game played on the gaming machine when a bettor makes a wager andinitiates a round of play by pressing a spin reel button 142 or bypulling the arm 108 of the gaming machine 104.

The bettor makes a wager by inserting coins into a coin acceptor 120, byinserting bills into a bill acceptor 124, or by inserting a credit ordebit type card or the like into a card acceptor 122. The card acceptor122 allows a bettor to transfer funds from his account into the gamingmachine. When credits have accumulated in the gaming machine 104, thebettor may wager a number of his credits by pressing a single bet button136 once or a number of times up to a maximum bet. In other cases, thebettor may press a maximum play button 140 to wager a maximum allowableamount for the gaming machine 104. Other buttons that may be situated onthe gaming machine 104 include a call attendant button 128 and a cashout button 132. The call attendant button 128 may be pressed when thebettor requires assistance from a casino employee concerning his gamingmachine 104. The cash out button 132 may be pressed when the bettorwishes to dispense credits accumulated in the gaming machine 104 intocoins or tokens. These coins or tokens may be dispensed into a coin ortoken collector 150 located near the bottom of the gaming machine 104.

Means, such as a master gaming controller or control system, are used tocontrol the operation of the gaming machine 104. FIG. 2 illustrates anembodiment of such a system or controller. As shown, a coin/tokenacceptor 204 accepts coins or tokens inserted by a bettor. Thecoin/token acceptor 204 may accept coins of one or more denominations.In other instances, tokens may be obtained in lieu of cash as providedin a casino. It is contemplated any number of coins or tokens may beaccepted prior to a round of play. A coin/token sensor 208 senses thequantity of coins accepted prior to a round of play and provides thisinformation to a processor 224 for processing. The processor 224comprises a central processing unit that facilitates computations andlogical functions within the gaming machine circuitry. The processor 224may be a Pentium processor manufactured by Intel Corporation, an Athlonprocessor manufactured by AMD Corporation or any similar type processor.

The coin/token sensor 208 may act to verify or authenticate thecoin/token deposited into the coin/token acceptor 204. The coin/tokensensor 208 may also provide a signal indicating that a coin/token wassuccessfully deposited into the coin/token acceptor 204. Informationprovided by the coin/token sensor 208 communicates to the processor 224by way of a communication bus 220. The bus 220 acts as a high speedmedium in which data may communicate between different functionaldevices within the gaming machine.

Similarly, a bill validator 212 provides acceptance of paper currency ofdifferent denominations. Upon the acceptance of paper currency, the billvalidator 212 either dispenses tokens/coins or establishes a number ofcredits equivalent to the currency accepted. As a convenience to theplayer or bettor, a card acceptor 214 may accept a credit or debit typecard, facilitating the transfer of funds from one's account intoequivalent credits on the gaming machine.

The coin/token sensor 208, bill validator 212, and card acceptor 214interact with the processor 224 to provide a cumulative total of theamount of credits accumulated for use by the bettor. The cumulativetotal may be stored in a random access memory 268. The random accessmemory 268 may store data related to the accounting history of a gamingmachine. When coins or tokens are deposited into the gaming machine, theprocessor 224 increments the number of credits in the random accessmemory 268 accordingly.

Though not illustrated, other means may be provided for providing valueto the gaming machine. For example, the gaming machine may include acredit, debit or smart card reader. The gaming machine may also includea ticket reader. Preferably, these devices also provide data to theprocessor 224 regarding credits or other value provided by the player.

When a round of play occurs, the processor 224 decrements the number ofcredits in the random access memory 268 by the amount bet or wagered.The number of credits may be displayed on a display 216 in anappropriate location on the body of the gaming machine. The display 216will also serve to provide outcome information in the form of symbols orindicia recognizable to the bettor. The display 216 may comprise one ormore monitors, a mechanical wheels, LCD displays, LED displays, or otherdevices and systems capable of providing visual information to a bettor.

In one embodiment, the size of the wager which is placed by the playeris determined by a player's input. In one embodiment, this input is bydepression of the single bet button or maximum play button.

In one embodiment, the processor 224 determines the location in a memory228, 232, 236, 240 that will generate an appropriate set of outcomes asa function of the amount wagered when a round of play is initiated. Thememory 228, 232, 236, 240 may comprise a single memory device ormultiple memory devices, and may comprise ROM, RAM, EEPROM or a widevariety of other data storage devices.

In one embodiment, one or more memory devices store “look up” tables.These look up tables comprise sets of data which represent sets ofpossible outcomes. In one embodiment, each memory 228, 232, 236, 240stores a separate set or table of outcomes. In accordance with theinvention, a particular set or table of outcomes is chosen, and then aparticular outcome is determined from that set or table.

In this embodiment, memory A1 228 stores a set or table of datarepresenting the possible outcomes associated with a minimum, or first,wager, memory A2 232 stores a set or table of data representing thepossible outcomes associated with a second wager that is larger than thefirst wager, such as twice the minimum wager, while memory A3 236 storesa set or table of data representing the possible outcomes associatedwith a third wager that is larger than the first or second wager, suchas three times the minimum wager. It is contemplated that a gamingmachine may have multi-denominational wagering capabilities where anymultiple of a minimum wager is accepted by the gaming machine. In thisinstance, a memory AN 240 stores a set or table of data representing thepossible outcomes associated with a wager that is N times the minimumwager. To encourage a player to wager a larger amount of money per roundof play, it is contemplated that memory A3 236 stores a set or table ofoutcomes comprising more winning outcomes than that of memory A2 232,while memory A2 232 stores a set or table of outcomes comprising morewinning outcomes than that of memory A1 228. It is contemplated that thenumber (or percentage) of winning outcomes stored in each memory 228,232, 236, 240 can be varied to suit a gaming machine operator'spreferences.

The set or table of data preferably defines the possible outcomes of thegame or other event being played. In the game of slots, the outcomes arerepresented by symbols or indicia displayed by the reels or displayed ona video display. In one embodiment, the outcomes comprise a winning orlosing outcome, and if a winning outcome, have a payout associatedtherewith. Each outcome, whether winning or losing, is represented by aset of symbols or data, the symbols or data used to visually present theoutcome to the player.

In one embodiment, each possible outcome is associated with orcorresponds to a specific number or numbers which may be generated by arandom number generator (RNG) 260. As illustrated, the RNG 260 is anelectronic device within the gaming machine capable of generating arandom number.

As one example, in the game of slots, outcomes may be represented bycombinations of the symbols red 7, white 7, blue 7, cherry, double,triple, single bar, double bar, triple bar, and blank. In a “three-reel”game, the outcome is represented by a combination of three of thesesymbols or indicia. Thus, in this example, a number generated from theRNG 260 may correspond to an outcome represented by the symbols red 7,white 7, and blue 7. In the case of other games, such as a game of videopoker, a number generated by the RNG 260 may correspond to an outcomerepresented by symbols representing a royal flush (i.e., the cards A, K,Q, J, 10 of the same suit).

Based upon the number generated by the RNG 260, associated outcomeinformation is used to define the outcome and display the outcome to theplayer. For example, in the case of a slot machine, the reels arestopped in a position so that they display the symbols which representthe outcome. In the case of a video poker machine, images of cards aredisplayed. In this manner, a player may determine whether an outcome ina round of play is a winning outcome.

If the outcome is a winning outcome, other actions are preferablytriggered. For example, in the event of a winning outcome, a winningpayout is preferably awarded to the player. This award may be in theform of credits, coins or the like. As is also known, in the event of awinning outcome, an audible notification of the win may be provided,such as by the sounding of bells or other sounds.

In another embodiment of the invention, the gaming machine's payouts (asopposed to percentage of winning outcomes) may be varied as a functionof the amount wagered by a player during a round of play. In onevariation or implementation of this embodiment, the payout associatedwith one or more particular winning outcomes varies based upon the sizeof the bet. Preferably, the size of the average payout associated withone or more particular winning outcomes increases by more than anincrease in the size of the bet. In another variation or implementationof this embodiment, the average payout or machine “return” varies basedupon the size of the bet. Preferably, the average payout or returnincreases as the size of the bet increases.

Aspects of the first variation of this embodiment will now be described.As was described previously, a RNG 260 generates a random number thatcorresponds to an outcome during a round of play. In this variation,however, the probability of receiving each possible outcome (whetherwinning or losing) is fixed and does not vary dependent upon the size ofthe player's bet. Instead, in accordance with this embodiment, the sizeof a winning payout for at least one winning outcome increases as afunction of the amount wagered. Preferably, the size of the averagepayout increases as the size of the bet increases. In one embodiment,the size of payouts for all winning combinations increase as the amountwagered increases.

In one embodiment, the outcomes, including their associated payouts, arestored in memories 244, 248, 252, 256. It is contemplated that theprocessor 224 monitors the amount wagered to determine which memory 244,248, 252, 256 to access. A memory B1 244 stores data representing thepayouts for outcomes when a first, or minimum, wager is placed, memoryB2 248 stores data representing the payouts for outcomes when a secondwager that is larger than the first wager, such as twice the minimumwager, is placed, while memory B3 252 stores data representing thepayouts for outcomes when a third wager that is larger than the first orsecond wagers, such as three times the minimum wager, is placed.

It is contemplated that a gaming machine may have multi-denominationalwagering capabilities where any multiple of a minimum wager is acceptedby the gaming machine. As a consequence, a memory is shown, BN 256, thatstores payout data representing the payouts for outcomes when a wagerthat is N times the minimum wager is placed.

To encourage a player to wager a maximum amount of money per round ofplay, it is contemplated a casino operator may configure that memory B3252 to store a set of payouts that is proportionally greater than thatof memory B2 248, while memory B2 248 stores a set of payouts that isproportionally greater than that of memory B1 244. It is contemplatedthat the payout for any outcome stored in memory 244, 248, 252, 256 maybe varied to suit a gaming machine operator's preferences.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the size of the averagewinning payout for one or more payouts or winning combinations increasesby more than the percentage increase in wager. In the embodimentillustrated, the size of the average winning payout provided for winningcombinations when a player makes a maximum bet may be set to anexemplary 6.7% greater than the average winning payout for winningcombinations that occurs when a player places a minimum wager. In thisinstance, a maximum bet of three times the minimum bet is configured toaward the player 3.2 times the award provided for the same winningoutcome on a minimum bet. In accordance with the prior art, the payoutwould increase only as a direct multiple of the size of the bet, i.e., 3times the award on such a bet since the wager was 3 times the minimumwager.

In accordance with the other variation of this embodiment, the averagepayout or return of the machine varies as bet size varies. As is known,the average payout or return for a gaming machine is the amount which,over time, is paid back to players, as compared to held by the gamingmachines, from all amounts wagered. The average payout may be quantifiedas the percentage of all wagered or bet amounts which are returned toplayers over time.

This embodiment may be implemented in a variety of manners. Inparticular, average machine return may be increased by modifying thepayment for particular winning combinations, changing the odds ofreceiving a winning combination or the like.

Preferably, in accordance with this variation, the average payout orreturn of the machine increases as bet size increases. One example ofthis embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 10( a). Asillustrated in FIG. 10( a), a game is implemented as a “slot” type gamehaving three reels, each reel capable of displaying a set of symbols. Inthis case, each reel is capable of displaying 22 symbols. The number ofparticular symbols appearing on each reel are indicated. For example, asingle “Red 7” symbol appears on each of the three reels. Two “Blue 7”symbols appear on one reel, and one each on the other two reels. Othersymbols appearing on the reels are “Three Bars,” “Two Bars,”, “One Bar,”and “blank.” Of course, other symbols may be used.

FIG. 10( a) further indicates the hit frequency or possible winningcombinations for the reels as configured. In this case, the possibletotal combinations, or a single cycle, comprises 10648 (i.e., the numberof symbols per reel multiplied together, 22*22*22). As illustrated, onlyone combination of “Red 7” may be received. FIG. 10( a) also illustratesthe payout for the winning combination (i.e., 200 times the wager forthree “Red 7” symbols), and the total payout per cycle for each winningcombination.

As illustrated, there are 1260 winning combinations out of a total 10648combinations for the reels and symbols so configured. In other words,the percentage of winning combinations to all combinations is 11.83%.

FIG. 10( a) illustrates an example payout when a player places a singleunit bet, such as a single coin. In that event, the total winning payoutfor those winning combinations is 9255 units or coins, compared to 10648units or coins which would be bet to receive all combinations (includingnon-winning combinations). The average payout is thus 9255/10648, or86.92%. In other words, on average, 86.92% of all wagers or bets arereturned to a player or players when the player or players are placing abet of a first size, such as a single coin.

FIG. 10( b) illustrates an example of game play based upon a secondwager. In this embodiment, the second wager is larger, and in particularis two times (i.e., two coins) that of the first size. As illustrated,the number of symbols which may be displayed on each reel are varied. Inthis embodiment, there are now 64 symbols on each of three reels. Forexample, the first reel now contains seven, instead of one, “Red 7.”Because of the variation in the symbols associated with each reel, thenumber of winning combinations out of all winning combinations varies.As illustrated, the total number of winning combinations to allcombinations is 37368/262,144, or 14.25%. Based on the payouts for thewinning combinations, 500040 coins or units would be paid out comparedto 524288 coins wagered on all combinations, or a return of 95.38%.

In the variation illustrated, the payout for each particular winningcombination has been doubled, matching the increase in size in the betor wager. However, when considering the frequency of winning combinationhits, the average payout has increased by nearly three percent (14.25vs. 11.83%), and thus the average payout has increased by nearly 10%(95.38% to 86.92%).

As indicated, there are a variety of ways to change the average payoutor return. For example, one way is to simply increase the average sizeof winning payouts. Other ways include changing the payouts for one ormore winning combinations, changing certain non-winning combinationsfrom losing to winning, and/or increasing the number of combinationswhich are winning.

FIGS. 10( a) and (b) illustrate the variation where the number ofwinning combinations is varied in combination with a change in payouts.This embodiment is particularly suited to a “video” slot configuration,where the particular symbols associated with each reel may be varied (asdescribed above, in such a variation, the symbols are not physicallyassociated with a reel, and instead data sets are used to represent thecombinations of symbols).

For example, FIGS. 11( a)-(c) illustrate yet another configuration forincreasing average winning payout or return as the bet size increases.These figures illustrate the configuration of a game in which a playermay place either a single unit or coin bet, two units or coins, or threeunits or coins. In this configuration, the average percentage of winningcombinations actually decreases as bet size increases. Nonetheless, theaverage winning payout increases because of increases in payout forparticular winning combinations.

It is contemplated that a gaming machine may be configured to implementeither or both operational embodiments or methodologies as discussed.Thus, it is contemplated that the variation in win probability or thevariation in payout as a function of the amount wagered by a player maybe effected during a round of play. It is contemplated that a controlcircuitry in conjunction with the processor 224 may provide the controlsignals to enable or disable operation of either methodologies. Thecontrol circuitry is understood by one of ordinary skill in the art andas such is not described in detail herein. The methodologies employedmay be programmed by way of an initialization routine or programprovided by a Read Only Memory (ROM) 272 when the gaming machine ispowered up. The ROM 272 may be configured to allow access to either thememories 228, 232, 236, 240 associated with varying the win probabilityor to memories 244, 248, 252, 256 associated with varying the payouts.It is contemplated that a technician may interchange one type of ROM 272with the other to provide a change of operation. It is also contemplatedthat switching from one methodology to the other may be accomplished byway of control signals provided by a software program residing in ROM272, RAM 268, or any other internal storage device, or externally from acomputing device communicating through the interface 264.

It is contemplated that the interface 264 may serve to provide acommunications channel to an external computing device capable ofmodifying or storing data contained in the memories 228, 232, 236, 240,244, 248, 252, 256. For example, a casino operator sitting remotely inan office may wish to modify the outcome or payout data by reprogrammingthe data stored in memories 228, 232, 236, 240, 244, 248, 252, 256 overa remote terminal. In order to facilitate this, it is contemplated thatmemories 228, 232, 236, 240, 244, 248, 252, 256 comprise programmablememory devices.

The RNG 260 may be configured to generate any set or range of values.For example, the RNG 260 may be configured to generate random numbersfrom 1 to 100, 1 to 1000, or from 1 to 10,000. A random number generatedfrom the RNG 260 should correspond to an outcome capable of beingdisplayed by the gaming machine for viewing to a player.

FIGS. 3, 3A, 3B, and 3C illustrate exemplary outcomes and payouts forthe method illustrated in FIG. 2 where win probability varies as afunction of the amount wagered by a player. FIG. 3 illustrates anexemplary set of outcomes provided by a typical slot machine when aminimum bet is wagered by a player. The table lists the payoutsassociated with all outcomes. In this embodiment, the win probabilityvaries as a function of the amount wagered. It is contemplated thepayout is linearly proportional to the amount wagered. For example, thepayout on a bet that is twice the minimum wager is paid out at twice theminimum wager payout. For the sake of brevity, the payouts correspondingto outcomes between (7B, 7B, 7B) and (TR, Ch, Ch) are not shown as thesedetails may be provided by one of ordinary skill in the art. The payoutsassociated with these winning outcomes may be any appropriate amount(i.e., amounts between BET×30 and BET×100) as may be determined by agaming machine operator.

FIGS. 5, 5A, 5B, and 5C illustrate the outcomes and payouts for themethod illustrated in FIG. 2 when payout varies as a function of theamount wagered by a player. FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary set ofoutcomes provided by a typical slot machine. The table lists theoutcomes associated with all random numbers generated by the RNG 260. Inits preferred operational embodiment, the gaming machine is configuredso that the size of the average payout increases as the amount wageredincreases. For the sake of brevity, the outcomes corresponding to randomnumbers 18 through 29 are not shown, as these details may be provided byone of ordinary skill in the art. The winning outcomes may be anyappropriate combination of symbols and may be determined by a gamingmachine operator.

Prior to providing a detailed discussion of FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C, 5A, 5B,and 5C, a description of the format of the tables in these figures isnow provided. The first column corresponds to the random numbersgenerated by the RNG 260. In all figures, the random number generatorgenerates integers starting from an exemplary value 1 and ending at anexemplary value 100. The second column provides the outcomes associatedwith a random number. In this embodiment, the outcomes are representedby a triplet of symbols representing a game of slots. The symbols arechosen from a set comprising the following exemplary elements: red7(7R),white7(7W), blue7(7B), cherry (Ch), double (DB), triple (TR), single bar(1B), double bar (2B), triple bar (3B), and blank (-). The third columnprovides the corresponding exemplary payouts associated with eachoutcome. In one embodiment, a losing outcome is represented by a payoutof “0.”

In FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C, the payout rate is constant for a specificoutcome; however, in the preferred operational embodiment, the winprobability increases as the amount wagered increases. For example, thepayout rate corresponding to (TR, TR, TR) does not vary amongst thetables (in all three cases, the payout rate for (TR, TR, TR) isBET×5,000).

In FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, the number of winning outcomes, and thus theprobability of receiving a winning combination, is not varied. Forexample, the number of winning outcomes remains the same at 38 out of100 (or 38%) for all three tables. However, the payout amounts or ratesfor one or more of those winning combinations or outcomes do vary as afunction of the amount wagered.

If the RNG 260 is configured to generate the integers from 1 to 100, apossible set of exemplary outcomes may be illustrated as shown in FIG.3A for a player who bets a minimum wager. The gaming machine circuitrymonitors the amount wagered and determines the appropriate memory 228 inwhich to access the set of outcomes. As illustrated in column 1 of FIG.3A, there are a total of 31 possible winning outcomes out of 100possible random numbers. In this instance, should the RNG 260 generatean integer from 1 to 31, the result is an outcome that has an associatedpayout. In this instance, an integer from 32 to 100 provides an outcomethat corresponds to three blanks having an associated payout of 0. Insum, the overall win probability represented by this set of outcomes is31%.

Should the player wager a larger amount, such as an amount equal totwice the minimum wager, an exemplary set of outcomes may be illustratedas shown in FIG. 3B. In this instance, the gaming machine circuitrydetermines the amount wagered to be larger, such as twice the minimumwager. As a result, the processor 224 queries the appropriate memory 232in which to access the appropriate set of outcomes. As shown in column 1of FIG. 3B, the RNG 260 may generate a total of 34 possible winningoutcomes from a total of 100 possibilities. In this instance, should theRNG 260 generate an integer from 1 to 34, the result is an outcome thathas an associated payout. If the random number is an integer from 35 to100, the outcome is three blanks having an associated payout of 0. Insum, the overall win probability represented by these set of outcomes is34%. Hence, a larger bet, such as an incremental bet to twice theminimum wager, has increased the win probability by 3%.

Should the player wager an even larger amount, such as an amount that isthree times the minimum wager, an exemplary set of outcomes may beillustrated as shown in FIG. 3C. In this instance, the processor 224determines the amount wagered to be a third, larger amount, such asthree times the minimum wager. As a result, the processor 224 accessesthe appropriate location in memory 236 in which to access theappropriate set of outcomes. As shown in column 1 of FIG. 3C, the RNG260 may generate a total of 37 possible winning outcomes from a total of100 possibilities. Should the RNG 260 generate an integer from 1 to 38,the result is an outcome that has an associated payout. Any integer from39 to 100 provides an outcome corresponding to three blanks having anassociated payout of 0. In sum, the overall win probability representedby these set of outcomes is 38%. Hence, an incremental larger bet, suchas three times the minimum wager, has increased the win probability by7%.

The outcomes represented in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C correspond to the casewhere N=3 or that the gaming machine will accept three different betamounts or ranges, such as bets up to three times the minimum wager. Itis contemplated that the outcomes may be varied to suit the objectivesof the gaming machine operator and that the variation in winningoutcomes between FIGS. 3A 3B, and 3C are exemplary. It is contemplatedthat the types of winning outcomes may be changed in memory as desiredby the gaming machine operator. For example, a (Ch, -, -) may bereplaced with (7B, 7B, 7B) providing a change in payout of 150×.However, the associated payout rate corresponding to these outcomes maynot be varied as was illustrated in FIG. 3. Although the number ofwinning outcomes (or % win probability) are allowed to vary between thesets of outcomes shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C, the payout rate remainsconstant for an outcome.

As opposed to (or in addition to) varying the win probabilities for aparticular amount wagered, it is contemplated that the gaming machineoperator may wish to vary the payout(s) associated with an outcome(s) asa function of the amount wagered. FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C illustrateexemplary payouts as the amount wagered is changed. If the RNG 260 isconfigured to generate the random numbers from 1 to 100, a possible setof exemplary payouts can be illustrated as shown in FIG. 5A for a playerwho bets a minimum, or first, wager.

As indicated previously, the gaming machine circuitry, such as theprocessor 224, random access memory 268, and coin/token sensor 208,monitor the amount wagered and determine the appropriate memory 244 inwhich to access the payout data.

As illustrated in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C, there are a total of 38 possiblewinning outcomes out of 100 possible random numbers. In this exemplaryconfiguration, when the RNG 260 generates an integer from 1 to 38, theresult is an outcome that has an associated payout. Any integer valuegenerated from 39 to 100 provides an outcome corresponding to threeblanks having an associated payout of 0. As illustrated, the payouts forwinning combinations increase as a player increases his wager from aminimum wager as exemplified in FIG. 5A to a maximum wager asexemplified in FIG. 5C. As shown in FIG. 5B, the player wagers an amountthat is larger, such as twice the minimum bet, resulting in payouts thatare 210% of what is paid out as shown in FIG. 5A. When the wager is at amaximum, or third amount, the payout is 320% of what is paid out asshown in FIG. 5C. It is contemplated that the outcomes associated withFIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C correspond to the case where N=3. In this case, thegaming machine will accept three bets or bet ranges, such as bets up tothree times the minimum wager. Further, it is contemplated that thepayouts may be varied to suit the objectives of the gaming machineoperator and that the payouts shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C areexemplary.

FIG. 4 provides an operational flow diagram of one method of theinvention where the probability of receiving a winning outcome increasesas an amount wagered increases. In step 404, the player or bettorestablishes credits on a gaming machine by inserting paper currency intoa bill validator, depositing coins or tokens into a coin/token acceptoror inserting a credit, debit type, or like type card which facilitates atransfer of funds from one's account to the gaming machine. The bettormay use any combination of the above deposit methods to generate creditsin the gaming machine. Deposits are added to a cumulative total numberof credits accounted for and displayed by the gaming machine. In step408, the bettor makes a wager on the gaming machine. The wager may beaccomplished by depressing a single bet button in which the bettorwagers a minimum bet. By depressing the single bet button multipletimes, the bettor may wager any amount of credits up to a maximum numberas designated on the gaming machine. It is contemplated that the bettormay depress a maximum bet button to facilitate a maximum wager. In astep 412, the player makes a decision to initiate the round of play bydepressing a spin reels button (or pulling a handle) in the exemplarycase of a gaming machine providing a game of slots. Should the playermake a decision to initiate the round of play by pulling the handle orpressing the spin button at the time when a minimum bet is wagered, theprocessor causes the RNG to generate a random number, as shown in a step416. The random number is used to determine the outcome of the game. Asindicated, this comprises generating or obtaining a symbol outcome frommemory (memory A1 in the case of the system illustrated in FIG. 2)associated with the minimum amount wagered, as indicated in a step 420.The symbol outcome associated with the random number is displayed on thegaming machine for viewing by a player. The symbol outcome in a game ofslots may be three cherries (Ch, Ch, Ch), two bars and one cherry (1B,1B, Ch), and the like.

In a step 424, a determination is made whether the outcome is a winningor losing outcome. If the outcome is a losing outcome, the round of playends at a step 436. If the outcome is a winning outcome, the processproceeds to a step 428, in which a payout associated with the outcome isdetermined or obtained, such as by mapping the outcome to a payoutstored in any memory, such as in random access memory or read onlymemory or the like. The payout data stored in random access memory maybe loaded as part of the gaming machine initialization routine. In astep 432, an associated payout is generated. The round of playterminates in the next step, 436.

The total amount wagered may vary, such as being any integer multiple ofa minimum bet (i.e., two or three coins). When the player or bettordecides to initiate the round of play, as indicated in a step 412, theprocess proceeds by the RNG generating a random number in a step 416.The random number is used to generate a symbol outcome from memory(A1-AN, FIG. 2) in conjunction with the amount wagered as indicated in astep 420. The symbol outcome associated with the random number isdisplayed on the gaming machine. In a step 424, a determination is madewhether the symbol outcome is a winning or losing outcome. If theoutcome is a losing outcome, the round of play ends at a step 436. Ifthe outcome is a winning outcome, the process proceeds to a step 428, inwhich the payout is determined by mapping the outcome to a payout storedin any memory, such as in random access memory. An associated payout isgenerated in a step 432, and the round of play terminates in a step 436.

FIG. 6 provides an operational flow diagram of a method where the payoutfor one or more winning combinations increases as an amount wageredincreases. In a step 604, the player or bettor establishes credits on agaming machine by inserting paper currency into a bill validator,depositing coins or tokens into a coin/token acceptor or inserting acredit, debit type, or like type card which facilitates a transfer offunds from one's account to the gaming machine. The bettor may use anycombination of the above deposit methods to generate credits in thegaming machine. Deposits are added to a cumulative total number ofcredits accounted for and displayed by the gaming machine. In a step608, the bettor makes a wager on the gaming machine. The wager may beaccomplished by depressing a single bet button in which the bettorwagers a minimum bet. By depressing the single bet button multipletimes, the bettor may wager any amount of credits up to a maximum numberas designated on the gaming machine. It is contemplated that the bettormay depress a maximum bet button to facilitate a maximum wager. In astep 612, the player makes a decision to initiate the round of play bydepressing a spin reels button (or pulling a handle) in the exemplarycase of a gaming machine providing a game of slots. Should the playermake a decision to initiate the round of play by pulling the handle orpressing the spin button at the time when a minimum bet is wagered, theprocessor causes the RNG to generate a random number, as shown in a step616.

In a step 620, the random number is used to generate or obtain anoutcome from memory such as a random access memory. The outcome data maybe may be loaded into the random access memory as part of the gamingmachine initialization routine. The symbol outcome associated with therandom number is displayed on the gaming machine for viewing by aplayer.

In a step 624, a determination is made whether the symbol outcome is awinning or losing outcome. If the symbol outcome is a losing outcome,the game or round of play ends at a step 636. If the outcome is awinning outcome, the process proceeds to a step 628, in which theoutcome is mapped to a payout from memory B1 (as shown in FIG. 2)associated with the minimum amount wagered, as indicated in a step 628.In a step 632, an associated payout is generated. The round of playterminates in the next step, 636.

The total amount wagered may vary, such as being any integer multiple ofa minimum bet (i.e., two or three coins). When the player or bettordecides to initiate the round of play, as indicated in a step 612, theprocess proceeds by the RNG generating a random number in a step 616.The random number is used to generate or determine a symbol outcome froma memory such as an exemplary random access memory (as shown in FIG. 2).In a step 624, a determination is made whether the outcome is a winningor losing outcome. If the outcome is a losing outcome, the round of playends at a step 636. If the outcome is a winning outcome, the processproceeds to a step 628, where the payout is determined, such as bymapping the outcome to a payout stored in the appropriate payout memory(B1-BN, FIG. 2), based on the amount wagered by the player. Anassociated payout is generated in a step 632, and the round of playterminates in a step 636.

FIG. 7 illustrates yet another embodiment of a system in accordance withthe present invention, which system may be used at a gaming machine toimplement a variation in win probabilities or payout as a function ofamount wagered in a game or round of play. This system includes threerandom number generators 728, 732, 734. A first random number generator728 is used to determine whether the outcome is a winning or losingoutcome, the second random number generator 732 is used to generatesymbols representing a winning outcome, while the third random numbergenerator 734 is used to generate symbols representing a losing outcome.

As shown a coin/token acceptor 704 accepts coins or tokens inserted by aplayer. The coin/token acceptor 704 may accept coins of one or moredenominations. In other instances, tokens may be obtained in lieu ofcash as provided in a casino. It is contemplated that any number ofcoins or tokens may be accepted prior to a round of play. A coin/tokensensor 708 senses the quantity of coins accepted prior to a round ofplay and provides this information to a processor 724 for processing.The processor 724 comprises a central processing unit that facilitatescomputations and logical functions within the gaming machine. Thecoin/token sensor 708 may act to verify or authenticate the coin/tokendeposited into the coin/token acceptor 704. The coin/token sensor 708may also provide a signal indicating that a coin/token was successfullydeposited into the coin/token acceptor 704. Information provided by thecoin/token sensor 708 communicates to the processor 724 by way of acommunication bus 720. The bus 720 acts as a high speed medium in whichdata may communicate between different functional devices within thegaming machine.

A bill validator 712 provides acceptance of paper currency of differentdenominations. Upon the acceptance of paper currency, the bill validator712 either dispenses tokens/coins or establishes a number credits on thegaming machine equivalent to the currency accepted. As a convenience tothe player or bettor, a card acceptor 714 may accept a credit or debittype card, facilitating the transfer of funds from one's account intoequivalent credits on the gaming machine.

The coin/token sensor 708, bill validator 712, and card acceptor 714interact with the processor 724 to provide a cumulative total of theamount of credits accumulated for use by the player. The cumulativetotal may be stored in a random access memory 760. The random accessmemory 760 may store data related to the accounting history of a gamingmachine. When coins or tokens are deposited into the gaming machine, theprocessor 724 increments the number of credits in the random accessmemory 760 accordingly. When a round of play occurs, the processor 724decrements the number of credits in the random access memory 760 by theamount wagered. The number of credits may be displayed in an appropriatelocation on the body of the gaming machine.

In this embodiment, the coin/token sensor 708 provides input to theprocessor 724 when a coin or token is inserted into the gaming machine.Similarly, a player pressing a single bet button or maximum play buttonwill provide inputs to the processor 724. These inputs determine thetotal amount wagered prior to the player initiating a round of play.When a round of play is initiated, a random number is generated by thefirst random number generator 728 and is mapped to data stored in awin/lose memory 736-739. The win/lose memories 736-739 comprise dataused to determine the percent win probability associated with an amountwagered. It is contemplated that the data in win/lose memory comprisewin or lose outcomes associated with all random numbers generated by thefirst random number generator 728. Win/lose memory #1 736 comprises dataassociated with win/lose outcomes corresponding to a first, or minimum,wager, win/lose memory #2 737 comprises data associated with win/loseoutcomes corresponding to a second, or intermediate, wager, whilewin/lose memory #3 738 comprises data associated with win/lose outcomescorresponding to a third, or maximum, wager. The win/lose memory #M 739stores win/lose outcome data in the case that a gaming machine accepts Mtimes the minimum wager. It is contemplated that this data may bedownloaded into the win/lose memory 736-739 remotely via an interface764 by a remote computing device. It is also contemplated that the datamay be stored in the win/lose memory 736-739 during an initializationprocess generated by a read only memory 778 when the gaming machine isturned on. In other cases, it is contemplated that the win/lose outcomesmay be stored in a software program within the win/lose memory 736 thatis initiated when a round of play commences.

The second random number generator 732 generates a random number that ismapped to data associated with a winning outcome stored in the randomaccess memory 760 or the like. The third random number generator 734generates a random number that is mapped to data associated with alosing outcome stored in the random access memory 760 or the like. Therandom access memory 760 contains all winning and losing outcomesassociated with any random number generated by the second random numbergenerator 732. The appropriate address within the random access memory760 is accessed depending on whether the first random number generates awin or a lose outcome.

Payout memories 744, 748, 752, 756 comprise memory containing payoutdata. The appropriate memory 744, 748, 752, 756 is accessed during around of play corresponding to the amount wagered by the player. In theinstance when only the payouts are made to vary according to the amountswagered by the player, it is contemplated that a subset of thesememories 744, 748, 752, 756 is accessed and read. For example, only thefirst payout memory 744 may be utilized when a minimum bet is wagered.The first payout memory 744 stores data corresponding to the payoutsassociated with a minimum wager, the second payout memory 748 storesdata corresponding to the payouts associated with a wager that is twicethe minimum wager, while the third payout memory 752 stores payout dataassociated with a wager that is three times the minimum wager. It iscontemplated that a gaming machine may have multi-denominationalwagering capabilities where any multiple of a minimum wager is acceptedby the gaming machine. As a consequence, an Mth payout memory 756 iscontemplated that stores payout data corresponding to a wager that is Mtimes the minimum wager. To encourage a player to wager a larger amountof money per round of play, it is contemplated a gaming machine operatormay configure the third payout memory 752 to store a set of payouts thatis greater than that of the second payout memory 748, while the secondpayout memory 748 is configured to store a set of payouts that isgreater than that of the first payout memory 744. It is contemplatedthat the payouts for any outcomes stored in memory 744, 748, 752, 756may be varied to suit a gaming machine operator's preferences.

FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C illustrate exemplary win/lose outcomes, symboloutcomes, and payouts associated with the embodiment shown in FIG. 7when win probability or a payout is varied as a function of the amountwagered by a player. FIG. 8A lists the win/lose outcomes associated withall random numbers produced by the first random number generator. Thefirst random number generator is configured to generate 100 integersstarting from the integer value 1 and ending at 100. As shown in thisexemplary table, the number of winning outcomes is configured toincrease as the wager is maximized. When the wager is three times theminimum wager, there are 36 winning outcomes out of 100 random numbers,yielding a 36% win probability. When the wager is at minimum, the winprobability is 30%.

FIG. 8B provides symbol outcomes as generated by the second randomnumber generator for all winning outcomes as determined by the firstrandom number generator. As illustrated in FIG. 8B, there are anexemplary 50 symbolic winning outcomes representing a typical game ofslots. Symbolic outcomes not represented in the symbolic winningoutcomes set may be categorized as losing outcomes corresponding to apayout of 0. For the sake of brevity, the win/lose outcomescorresponding to random numbers between 19 and 29 are not shown in FIGS.8A and 8B, as these details may be provided by one of ordinary skill inthe art. An example of a symbol outcome is three cherries (Ch, Ch, Ch)which results when the second random number is the integer 44.

FIG. 8C provides symbol outcomes as generated by the third random numbergenerator for all losing outcomes as determined by the first randomnumber generator. As illustrated in FIG. 8C, there are 100 exemplarylosing symbol outcomes. The number of outcomes and corresponding symbolsare exemplary and may be configured as desired by a gaming machineoperator. For the sake of brevity, the payouts for losing outcomes arenot illustrated, as all such outcomes correspond to zero payouts. Anexample of a losing symbol outcome may be a triplet corresponding tothree blanks (-, -, -). In this exemplary mapping of random numbers tosymbol outcomes, this outcome results when the third random numbercorresponds to the value 1.

FIG. 8D provides exemplary payouts for a winning outcome as a functionof the amount wagered by the player. For the sake of brevity, thepayouts between winning outcomes (7B, 7B, 7B) and (TR, Ch, Ch) are notshown in FIG. 8D, as these details may be provided by one of ordinaryskill in the art. As illustrated, the payout rate may be configured tobe proportional to the amount wagered or may be configured to increasenon-linearly as the minimum bet is increased. If the payout is setproportionally, the payout for a bet that is twice the minimum bet wouldresult in a payout that is 200% of a minimum wager payout. In instanceswhen the gaming machine operator wishes to provide an incentive to wagera maximum amount per round, the payout rate may be set so that the rateis at 210% when the player wagers an amount that is twice the minimumbet (one would expect a 200% payout). When the wager is three times theminimum bet, the payout may be set at 320% of the minimum bet. Ofcourse, the payouts associated with these winning outcomes may be set toany amount (i.e., any amount between BET×30 and BET×300) as desired by agaming machine operator.

FIG. 9 provides an operational flow diagram of the embodiment shown inFIG. 7. In a step 904, a player makes a minimum wager by either pressinga single bet button or by inserting a coin or token. In a step 908, acoin/token sensor registers the coin or token deposited into the gamingmachine and credits the monies toward the next game. In a step 912, theplayer makes a decision to initiate the round of play or to allocate anincremental amount to the wager. Should the player make a decision toinitiate the round of play by pulling the handle or pressing the spinbutton at the time a bet is wagered, the processor causes the firstrandom number generator to generate a random number as shown in a step916. The random number generator may be configured to generate integersstarting at 1 and ending at an exemplary 100, as was illustrated in FIG.8A. It is contemplated that the random number may be generated from anyrange of numbers as determined and configured by the gaming machineoperator. In a step 920, the first random number is mapped in win/losememory, resulting in either a win outcome or a lose outcome. Theprobability of winning may be a function of the amount wagered. In astep 924, if the first random number maps to a lose outcome, the processproceeds to a step 940, where a third random number generator generatesa third random number. The random number generator may be configured togenerate integers starting at 1 and ending at an exemplary 100, as wasillustrated in FIG. 8C. Again, the range of numbers may be configured onthe gaming machine based on the gaming machine operator's preferences.In a step 944, the third random number is mapped to a specific losingsymbol outcome and displayed to the bettor. Then, the round of play endsas indicated in a step 948.

Should the first random number be mapped to a win outcome, the processcontinues at a step 928, in which a second random number generatorgenerates a second random number. The random number generator may beconfigured to generate integers starting at 1 and ending at an exemplary50, as was illustrated in FIG. 8B. In a step 932, the second randomnumber is mapped to a corresponding symbolic winning outcome. Forexample, the symbol outcome may comprise three cherries (Ch, Ch, Ch)corresponding to the random number 44. It is contemplated that therandom numbers generated may be chosen to be any set of numbers that maybe used to represent the desired winning outcomes. In a step 936, thegaming machine may generate an appropriate payout as a function of theamount wagered. It is contemplated that this step may be performed basedon the preferences of the gaming machine operator. The gaming machineoperator may chose to provide typical payout rates proportional to theamount wagered. In other instances, the gaming machine operator mayconfigure the payout memories at payout rates that increase non-linearlyas the minimum bet is increased as an incentive to a player to maximizea bet per round of play. The gaming machine dispenses or credits thepayout, and the round of play terminates in a step 940.

A variety of alternate configurations of apparatus and methods arecontemplated other than those specifically described herein.

As indicated, in one embodiment of a method, the probability ofreceiving a winning outcome varies depending upon the size of a betplaced by a player of a gaming machine. In a preferred embodiment, theprobability of receiving a winning outcome increases as bet sizeincreases. As described above, in one embodiment, this method may beimplemented by causing one or more outcomes which are defined as losingoutcomes for a bet of a first size to be configured as winning outcomesif received when a bet of a second (and preferably larger) bet isplaced. In other words, the probability of receiving a winning outcomeincreases because the number of possible winning combinations increasesas compared to losing combinations as bet size changes. For example, asillustrated in FIG. 3B compared to FIG. 3A, three new winningcombinations have been defined.

In another configuration, this method may be implemented by causing theprobability of a particular winning combination or outcome to occur morefrequently. For example, though not illustrated in FIG. 3B, the outcometable illustrated therein could be modified so that the combination TR,TR, TR may be received when random number 1 or 100 occurs. In thismanner, the odds of receiving this particular winning combination aredoubled.

As described, this embodiment method of the invention may be implementedin a variety of ways. In one embodiment, the method is implemented in agaming machine by including multiple “look-up” tables which are storedin one or more memory units. The method may be implemented using othersystems or apparatus.

It will be appreciated that the probability of receiving a winningoutcome need not increase specifically for each bet increment (i.e., x,2x, 3x). For example, the probabilities may vary for ranges of bets oronly particular different bets. In one embodiment, the probability forreceiving a winning outcome may be the same for all amounts wageredexcept a maximum permitted wager, in which case the probability ofreceiving a winning outcome may be increased for that maximum wager.

This embodiment of the invention has numerous advantages. In thisembodiment, it is possible to increase the probability that a playerwill receive a winning combination as the size of a player's betincreases. In other words, for the play of a given game or round of gameplay, the player is more likely to receive a winning outcome if he orshe places a larger bet than if the player places a smaller bet. Aplayer is enticed to bet a larger or maximum bet, as this increases theodds that the player will receive a winning combination. In oneembodiment, the average “hold” for the gaming machine always remains atleast several percent of the total amounts wagered. Thus, as playersplace larger wagers, the total amounts wagered during a period of time,and thus the total net revenue to the casino, increases.

In another embodiment of the invention, as described, the size of theaverage payout per minimum wager varies as bet size changes. In oneversion or variation, the average payout for one or more particularwinning combinations varies as bet size changes. Preferably, the size ofthe average payout per minimum wager increases as bet size increases fora specific winning outcome. In particular, the size of the averagepayout increases more than the percentage by which the bet sizeincreases. This is a significant advantage over the prior art. In theprior art, the payout increases proportionately with bet size (i.e., ifthe bet is 2 credits versus 1, then the payout for a winning combinationis 2 times the payout compared to when a single bet is placed). Inaccordance with the invention, the payout increases disproportionatelyto the percentage change in bet, being greater (or less, if desired)than this percentage change.

As also described above, in one embodiment, the average payout or returnvaries with bet size. Preferably, the average payout or return increaseswith bet size. For example, the average return or payout may be 97% whenbets of a second amount are placed, as compared to 95% when bets of afirst, smaller amount are placed. In other words, the payout to theplayer increases, on average, 2% when the player places a larger, secondbet. This embodiment has the advantage that a player placing larger betswill receive, on average, a higher return.

As described above, in one embodiment, an increase in the size of theaverage payout comprises increasing the payout multiplier for allwinning combinations as bet size increases. The method may beimplemented in other fashions, however. For example, the payout for oneor some, but not all, winning combinations may be increased. Inaddition, the amount of the increase may vary, depending on the specificoutcome.

Once again, the methods may be implemented in a variety of fashions. Asdescribed, for example, a method may be implemented by using a pluralityof “look-up” tables having varied payouts. In another embodiment, asingle look-up table may be used. Based on the size of the bet, aconstant multiplier may be applied to each winning payout. Themultiplier may increase (preferably) or decrease as the bet sizeincreases.

This method, likewise, has numerous advantages. Once again, a player isenticed to bet a larger or maximum bet, as such results in thelikelihood that the player will receive a larger payout. Because theplayer is enticed to wager larger amounts, the total revenue for thecasino may also increase.

It will be understood that the above described arrangements of apparatusand the method therefrom are merely illustrative of applications of theprinciples of this invention and many other embodiments andmodifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe invention as defined in the claims.

1. A method of playing a game on a gaming machine in which theprobability of receiving a winning outcome varies dependent upon anamount wagered, comprising the steps of: accepting a wager from aplayer; determining if said wager is a first amount or a second amount,said second amount being larger than said first amount; presenting agame for play by said player, said game having a first probability ofresulting in a winning outcome if said wager is said first amount, andsaid game having a second probability of resulting in a winning outcomeif said wager is said second amount; determining the outcome of saidgame; and awarding said player a winning if said outcome is a winningoutcome.